FLORIDA BOATING: TOP 13 DESTINATIONS
“The sunshine state” has a lot to offer to boaters. Some even call it “the boating capital of the world”, and for good reason.
Stretching over 1,350 miles (2,170 kilometres), Florida’s coastline is the longest in the contiguous United States. Inland, you’ll find 7,700 lakes and 11,000 miles (17,702 kilometres) of rivers. The state holds over 900 world fishing records - more than any other country. Plus, the mild weather allows people to boat, fish, and swim year-round.
Thinking of going boating in Florida soon? We have crafted a list of the state’s top boating destinations for you. Here they are, in no particular order.
JACKSONVILLE
Jacksonville boasts the longest coastline of a city in Florida. From here, you’ll easily reach prime boating hotspots, such as the ICW and the St. John’s River. You can either explore the city by boat or head to the numerous islands to do some bird watching or hiking. With access to the ocean and over 1,100 miles (1,770 kilometres) of interior shoreline, you will have plenty of freshwater and saltwater fishing options.
PENSACOLA
Located on the Emerald Coast, in the Gulf Of Mexico, the city of Pensacola has a strong sailing tradition. Together with the nearby towns of Fort Walton and Destin, the trio is called the “World's Luckiest Fishing Village.” The deep-sea fishing is excellent here.
TAMPA BAY
If you’re looking for a relaxing break from it all, head to Tampa Bay - Florida’s biggest estuary. Cruise to Caladesi Island, Shell Key, Beer Can Island, and Passage Key. Stop to sunbathe in one of the stunning secluded beaches and sandbars. When you’re rested, go fishing in the bay or offshore.
FORT LAUDERDALE AND MIAMI
Fort Lauderdale, dubbed the “Venice Of America”, is one of the most popular boating destinations in the world. It features 300 miles (483 kilometres) of inland waterways and over 40,000 yachts call it home. The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is also worth a visit.
Miami’s skyline and lightlife are iconic. The city offers the perfect combination of relaxing locations, like the famous sandbars, and downtown entertainment.
Anglers will enjoy fishing luck in both Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
CHARLOTTE HARBOR
Don’t like crowds? Opt for lesser-known Charlotte Harbor. Enjoy the secluded beaches and anchorages, as well as beautiful islands, while fishing for snook, redfish, grouper, and more. The area is meant to be the most fertile fishing ground in the state and it’s home to a number of fishing shows.
NEW SMYRNA BEACH
Less-known places popular with locals have a more authentic feel. New Smyrna Beach is a fantastic fishing spot - one of the few beaches in Florida where beach driving is allowed. Cast for pompano, bluefish, flounder, and more on a boat or ashore.
FLORIDA KEYS
If you’re looking to do something different every day on your holiday, head to the Florida Keys. Here, you can scuba dive, cruise, fish, kayak, and more year-round. There are National Parks to explore, as well as a 100-mile (161-kilometre) stretch of islands to visit.
CRYSTAL RIVER
If you’re taking the family with you, opt for Crystal River. Fish inshore, offshore, or at the freshwater springs. Go swimming and snorkelling in the pristine waters and head out for a kayak trip at sunset. Grown ups and little ones alike will have a great time.
PALM BEACH
Looking for that tropical island feeling? Head south to Palm Beach, by Jupiter Island. You’ll find fantastic coastal and deep-water fishing, crystal clear waters, and gorgeous sandbars. There are multiple great fishing spots in the area, such as Snook Island and Okeeheelee Park.
TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS
In southwest Florida, there’s an incredible island chain, which stretches over 35,000 acres (141 square kilometres). Some of the islands are sandbars and mangrove islets. You can cruise for hours here before finding the perfect spot where to relax or go on a stand up paddle trip.
SARASOTA BAY
Picture a variety of sandbars, seagrass meadows, bird rookeries, spoil islands, and isolated beaches. This is just part of the fantastic attractions you will be able to visit in Sarasota Bay, a watersports Mecca. It’s a lagoon located in the central west coast of Florida.
STUART
Want to hook a sailfish? Head to Stuart, the “Sailfish Capital,” just north of Palm Beach. Here, you’ll be able to practise sport fishing, relax on the beach, and visit the vibrant downtown. There’s also some freshwater fishing to be done in the St. Lucile River.
PANAMA CITY BEACH
For an inshore fishing paradise, choose Panama City Beach, on the Gulf of Mexico. Fish off the surf and cast in the shallow flats. For a full-day trip, opt for an offshore trip.
Florida is truly a boating Mecca, so no matter where you go, you’ll find plenty of boat rental shops and sailing schools. Local companies organise day trips, charters, and cruises. It’s best to book in advance.
Just remember to carry your Boating Safety Education Identification Card and your Florida fishing licence with you. Boat responsibly.